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The Story Behind This Park In Illinois Is Bizarre But True

It might seem like a lifetime ago, and for many of us, it was even before our lives. But the Cold War was serious business. And across America, missile launch sites were built. We wanted to be prepared to engage in battle in case another country engaged us. Times were tense, and there was a general sense of uncertainty in our nation about what our fate would be.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

Fortunately, the Cold War is over, and those tensions are gone. But that doesn’t mean that all remnants of this time have disappeared. In fact, some are still right here in Illinois. In Addison, Illinois, for example, there still is a Cold War Missile Launch Site.

Most of the equipment was removed, and it is now a forest preserve. However, the radar installation and control tower are still here. Now, there are baseball diamonds and tennis courts. It is truly a bizarre dichotomy. While we have tried to move past this part of our history, it still remains right below the surface.

It’s worth a visit here, both because the new facilities are very nice, and also to get a glimpse of what this place used to look like. We don’t live in those times anymore, but that doesn’t make them any less real.

One quick note about the location: it is notoriously hard to find. There is only a small sign. The park entrance is on the east side of Rohling Rd between two businesses.